On 11-12 May 2024, a conference titled “Drought and the Impact of Climate Change on the Political, Economic, and Demographic Situation of Iraq” was held in Erbil. Sponsored by Vision Education, the event was organised by the French Research Centre on Iraq, the Bahr Alolom Forum, and the University of Kurdistan – Hewlêr. It drew senior officials and experts from both local and international circles.
Distinguished attendees included Iraqi President Latif Rashid, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, and KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.
The conference featured several panels that addressed the climate threats facing Iraq and the wider global community, such as water shortages and the ongoing drought crisis. The discussions emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to tackle these challenges, stressing the severe consequences of drought and its impact on Iraq’s population and the wider region in the coming years.
President Latif Rashid urged the Iraqi government to take significant action, such as constructing more dams, conserving rainwater, and preventing the wastage of water resources. He also highlighted the adverse effects of environmental changes on the economic and agricultural sectors.
President Nechirvan Barzani underscored the vital role of educational systems and programmes in raising public awareness about environmental protection and climate change.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani emphasised the government’s responsibility, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, to implement further climate protection initiatives. He also highlighted the need to address security challenges, including migration, which could result from environmental changes.
During the two-day conference, students from universities and educational institutions had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with experts and government officials about the environmental changes affecting Iraqi communities and the world.